With the deepening of China-Africa trade cooperation, Togo, as a gateway country in West Africa, has gradually become a key export destination for Chinese companies due to its stable economy and convenient port conditions. This article will provide a detailed overview of basic transportation conditions between the two countries.
How to Ship from China to Togo
China-Africa bilateral trade volume has grown annually. Togo, with West Africa’s deepest-water port, is a key transshipment hub in the region. Depending on the characteristics and demand of the cargo, there are two main modes of transportation: air freight and sea freight. The following is a detailed introduction:
Sea freight
Sea freight offers low freight rates and is suitable for large-volume cargo. The unit cost is significantly lower than air freight. It is suitable for large and heavy cargo such as machinery and equipment, building materials, and full container loads. It has a wide range of routes, a large capacity, and flexible cargo handling. It offers flexible full container load (FCL) and less-than-container load (LCL) options, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Detailed Sea Freight Process
- Booking a Freight: Select a reliable freight forwarder with experience in shipping from China to Côte d’Ivoire. After providing cargo information, the freight forwarder will assist in booking space on board.
- Prepare the Goods: Ensure your goods are properly packaged to avoid damage during transport, including all necessary product details and handling instructions.
- Export Customs Clearance (China): Submit the necessary export documents to Chinese Customs for customs clearance. Once clearance is approved, the goods can be shipped.
- Ocean Shipping: Goods are loaded into containers at the port of departure (e.g., Shanghai or Shenzhen), and the containers are shipped to Togo by sea, depending on the port of departure and the shipping company.
- Import Customs Clearance (Togo): Upon arrival at the port of Abidjan, the importer or their customs broker submits the required documents to Togolese Customs and pays the necessary duties and taxes for customs clearance.
- Delivery to Destination: After customs clearance, the goods will be delivered to a designated warehouse or final delivery address in Togo.
Air Freight
Air freight offers speed, high security, strict air transport regulations, and a low loss rate, making it suitable for high-value and urgent goods such as electronics, samples, and documents. It also offers fast customs clearance and relatively efficient airport processing. However, its limited capacity prevents the transport of oversized or heavy goods, and requires packaging that is drop-resistant, shock-resistant, and pressure-resistant.
Air Freight Detailed Process
- Consultation and Booking: Discuss shipment details, including cargo type, weight, dimensions, and destination. Based on urgency and budget, choose between economy and express air freight options. Reserve space with the airline and track the shipment.
- Cargo Preparation: Ensure cargo is securely packaged using materials suitable for air transport. Fragile or dangerous goods may require additional precautions, including labeling with consignee details, handling instructions, and required shipping information.
- China Export Clearance: Provide necessary documentation to Chinese customs authorities. Cargo may be inspected to verify compliance with export regulations.
- Air Freight: Cargo is loaded onto the aircraft at the departure airport (e.g., Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun). Timeframes vary depending on route and customs processing.
- Togo Import Clearance: Provide required documentation to customs officials at the airport. Cargo is inspected to ensure compliance with import regulations. Applicable import duties, VAT, and other fees are paid based on the cargo’s CIF value.
- Final Delivery: Arrange delivery to the consignee in Togo by truck or other means of transportation.
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Togo?
Shipping times from China to Togo depend primarily on the mode of transport (sea or air), the specific port/airport, whether there are transit routes, and the impact of customs clearance. The following details the factors that affect shipping:
- Transshipment: Direct routes to the port of Abidjan are faster. Transshipping via a transit port (such as Singapore, Durban, or Lomé) can take 5-10 days.
- Port congestion: High cargo volumes at the port of departure or arrival can cause loading and unloading delays.
- Weather conditions: Severe weather en route, especially near the Gulf of Guinea, can affect shipping schedules.
- Customs procedures: Customs clearance delays in Togo or China can extend shipping times.
| Departure place | Destination | Sea Transit (Days) | Air Transit (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ningbo | Lomé | 31 | 8 |
| Shanghai | Lomé | 31 | 7 |
| Shenzhen | Lomé | 31 | 7 |
| Qingdao | Lomé | 40 | 9 |
| Tianjin | Lomé | 45 | 10 |
Shipping Cost from China to Togo
Shipping costs are a top concern for every customer. When considering shipping goods from China to Togo, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with various modes of transport and thoroughly evaluate all factors that influence the final price. Here are some key factors:
- Cargo type and weight: Overweight, bulky, and dangerous goods carry higher charges.
- Seasonal fluctuations and fuel surcharges: Freight rates increase around holidays and during peak seasons (such as the Spring Festival and Christmas).
- Destination policies and customs clearance efficiency: Togolese customs efficiency and policy changes can also affect delivery time and costs.
- Insurance and additional service fees: For example, DDP services (including customs clearance) and door-to-door delivery are charged separately.
| Shipping Mode | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight ( less-than-container load) | $120 – $160 / CBM | Cost-effective for large shipments; longer transit times due to sea travel and port handling. |
| Sea Freight (20-foot container) | $2,100-$3,500 | Includes overland transport from Poti/Batumi to Yerevan. |
| Sea Freight (40-foot container) | $3,500-$4,500 | Cost-effective for bulk shipments, factoring in land transport. |
| Air Freight | $5.20 per kg | Fast delivery, ideal for high-value or urgent shipments. |
Costs of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to Togo
Most shipping from China to Togo is done in containers. Container shipping costs are primarily based on container size (20ft vs. 40ft). Shipping costs to Togo vary between ports. Below are the cost details:
| Departure Port in China | Arrival Port in Togo | 20ft Container (USD) | 40ft Container (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Port | Port of Lomé | $3,200 – $3,800 | $4,800 – $5,500 |
| Ningbo Port | Port of Lomé | $3,100 – $3,700 | $4,700 – $5,400 |
| Shenzhen Port | Port of Lomé | $2,900 – $3,500 | $4,500 – $5,200 |
| Guangzhou Port | Port of Lomé | $2,800 – $3,400 | $4,300 – $5,000 |
| Qingdao Port | Port of Lomé | $3,300 – $3,900 | $5,000 – $5,700 |
Find out about shipping costs to surrounding areas below:
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Cote d’Ivoire
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Nigeria
Customs Clearance and Duties for Shipping from China to Togo
When shipping goods, it’s crucial to navigate customs procedures and understand import duties. As one of West Africa’s fastest-growing economies, Togo imports a wide variety of goods, and ensuring smooth customs clearance can save time and costs.
The customs clearance process involves submitting accurate documentation, complying with Togo’s import regulations, and paying applicable duties and taxes. Duties and VAT are calculated based on the CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) value of the goods, making detailed and accurate valuations crucial. Importers must also comply with other requirements, such as obtaining licenses for regulated goods or certificates for specific product categories.
Customs Clearance Process
The following documents are required for customs clearance:
- Commercial Invoice: Details the value, quantity, and description of the goods.
- Packing List: Specifies the dimensions, weight, and contents of the goods.
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB): Proof of shipment.
- Certificate of Origin: Confirms the goods’ origin and is often required to calculate customs duties.
- Import License/Permit: Required for regulated items such as pharmaceuticals or electronics. Special Certificates: Phytosanitary certificates for specific goods, such as agricultural products.
Customs Inspection
Customs officials may inspect goods to verify compliance with Togolese regulations, including the declared value and description, and compliance with import laws.
Duty and Tax Assessment
Duties and taxes are calculated based on the CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) value of the goods.
Payment of Duties and Taxes
The importer or their customs broker must pay the assessed duties and taxes before the goods are released.
Release of Goods
After successful customs clearance, the goods are released from the customs warehouse for shipment to their final destination.
Duties and Taxes
- Duty rates: 5%-30% (depending on the type of goods, e.g., 10% for electronics and 20% for textiles).
- Value Added Tax (VAT): 18% (reduced for some essential goods).
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder
With Ubestshipping, we specialize in providing seamless and reliable shipping solutions tailored to your business needs. With years of global logistics experience, we ensure your shipment arrives in Togo on time and in perfect condition. Here’s what makes us a trusted choice for businesses worldwide:
- Comprehensive Services: Whether you need ocean freight, air freight, or door-to-door delivery, we can meet your every need.
- Customs Expertise: Our team can handle complex customs clearance processes, ensuring compliance and minimizing delays.
- Competitive Pricing: We offer cost-effective shipping options without compromising quality or reliability.
- Advanced Tracking: Monitor your shipment every step of the way with our real-time tracking system.
- Dedicated Support: Our experienced professionals are available to assist you throughout the entire shipping process.
From the moment your shipment leaves China to its final arrival in Togo, Ubestshipping ensures a worry-free experience. Contact us today for a personalized quote and let us handle your logistics with professionalism and attention to detail!